Dalt Vila: history and culture in Ibiza

The Dalt Vila is the historic core and intramural neighborhood of Ibiza. This city extends inside and outside the important walls that have been recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999. The construction of these was the decision of a policy of defense of King Philip II, with the aim of curbing invasions and constant looting of the Berber pirates. Today, it is the only Renaissance fortress in Europe that is still complete, together with the Valletta site in Malta.

The Dalt Vila must be known from two perspectives: getting lost in the labyrinth of streets full of artisans, art galleries and palatial dwellings, with that typically Ibizan whitewashed; and also walking around the walled perimeter from the top. The historic center of Ibiza is one of the most beautiful citadels of the Mediterranean, with a fervent summer atmosphere, recommended for walking either early in the morning or at dusk. If you want to know Dalt Vila fully, in this post we will mark you a route through its most enigmatic corners. Come on!

The Porta de Ses Taules is located next to the Old Market and is one of the most emblematic images of the island. Then, when crossing this door, you will reach the Vila square. In this one is the Museum of Contemporary Art. In the Plaza de Sa Carrosa we find one of the classic restaurants of the city, El Portalón. Nearby, there is also the Santa Lucía bastion, another restaurant with wonderful views of the port of Ibiza and the neighborhoods of Sa Penya and La Marina. As for the seat of the City Council, we know that it was a former Convent of the Dominicans. In the upper part of Joan Román street, there is the convent of Sant Cristóbal, which has a beautiful chapel open to tourists and a lathe where you can buy several typical sweets that are made by their nuns.

In the carrer Major is the Puget Museum. Famous for its interesting pictorial collection, it will allow us to get to know the more rural Ibiza of the first half of the 20th century. After passing Sa Portella, in the same street is the only access to the Arab citadel that is preserved, with several stately homes. Do not forget to visit the Madina Yabisa Interpretation Center (a few steps from the Cathedral and the Archaeological Museum) and take us on a trip to the old Muslim Ibiza, which is still visible in the towers of Dalt Vila and its urban layout .

Dalt Vila has developed a process of museumization that includes numerous activities and interactive / multimedia experiences that can be enjoyed in the bastions of Sant Pere, Sant Bernard and Sant Jaume. Another important emblem of Dalt Vila is its castle, used by the army until 1973. From there it became municipal property, and is currently being restored for transformation into a Parador de Turismo, which prevents its visit.